Two new mini-EPs from Rayhan continue to show the Toronto-based artist as a captivating crafter of both atmospheric and emotively gripping hip-hop productions. Both EP #5 and CRYONIC were released in the month of November, and represent a thematic emphasis on a tension between ascending success and uncertainty. The tracks within center around a delicate push-and-pull, where confidence from current successes and momentum balance with questioning of what the next step is. Alongside a soundscape-ready reflection of Toronto’s fall and winter, the personable productions shine throughout.
Released on the first of November, EP #5 commences with the riveting “Windchill Minus Twenty.” Its title certainly reflective of winter’s chill, the “sitting in the cold” lyrical proclamations meld with sturdy rhythmic prowess and soulful vocal samples. The lyrics continue to reflect on an artistic journey — from taking the stage, to finding fans, and then spending money in debaucherously relatable form. “Trying to figure out the cost of living,” Rayhan’s vocals continue, into a captivating roommate and “going back to the hood” sequence. The ensuing “Basic” succeeds in a different stylistic realm entirely, embracing a more pop-rock backing with shimmering guitars complementing laments on a toxic relationship. EP finale “Shotta” then brings forth a grimy, buzzing invigoration that caps it off with sating impact.
The equally successful CRYONIC, released on November 29th, begins similarly with lyrical accounts of sub-zero temperatures and reflective perseverance. The heart-on-sleeve accounts of inner peace and temptations are compelling, with the added high-pitched vocal backing upon the “I’m on some scary shit” line being especially absorbing. Rayhan balances fantastic backing vocal elements with his fierce, intense lead for an enthralling result. “Some Feelings…” arrives next, strutting a pulsing guitar presence with a post-punk playfulness, alongside “walking away but I’m still lookin back though” perspectives of a lingering past. “Underrated” arrives as this EP’s closer, with a murmuring textural nocturnal pull pairing with sporadic spoken-word elements for an atmospheric, transportive finale. Both EPs are immersive successes from Rayhan, full of vibe-y productions and impeccable hip-hop flows.
